Brave 
Introduction When I first arrived in Ozark, Missouri—just south of Springfield—I thought I’d be visiting a quiet small town for a night or two. What I found was so much more: a place with scenic riverside parks, a charming historic downtown square, hidden outdoor gems, and fun experiences that felt like discovering a … Read more
Introduction When I drove into Rockport, Maine, I expected a quaint coastal New England town—a few lobster shacks, a tidy harbor, perhaps a scenic viewpoint. What I found was so much more: a place where the sea meets art galleries, blueberry-covered hills, historic lighthouses, and tranquil nature reserves. I spent a … Read more
Introduction From the moment I drove into Lewiston, Idaho, I felt like I’d arrived at a travel gem tucked into the rivers-and-hills of the inland Northwest. The city sits where the Snake and Clearwater Rivers converge, with golden hills and a history bound up in adventure and the wild outdoors. I spent a … Read more
Introduction When I first planned a short trip to Shreveport, Louisiana, I expected a typical mid-sized Southern city with some historic charm and maybe a riverfront casino. What I discovered, however, was far richer: a riverbank alive with views, a creative and quirky arts scene, wild Cajun-style cuisine, museums I didn’t expect, and … Read more
Introduction I first arrived in New Brunswick with modest expectations—just a convenient stop between New York City and the Jersey Shore. What I discovered, though, was a surprisingly vibrant city steeped in history, culture, student energy (thanks to Rutgers University), and a lively downtown full of restaurants, theaters, and outdoor spots. Over a … Read more
Introduction If you’ve ever found yourself daydreaming about escaping the hustle and bustle for a mix of mountain air, outdoor thrills, cozy spots, and some real “just-for-fun” time, then coming to Tannersville, Pennsylvania in the heart of the Poconos is one of those soul-refreshing moves. I recently spent a weekend there (yes, I … Read more
Introduction If you’ve ever found yourself on the cusp of a travel escape where you want just the right mix of fun, relaxation, novelty, and convenience—then my recent weekend in Hanover, Maryland, hit that sweet spot. Tucked between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., this lively community surprised me with its breadth of activities: from … Read more
Introduction If you’re like me—someone who thrives on discovering unexpected gems—then a day (or weekend) in Camden, New Jersey, might just surprise you. I recently spent a few hours exploring the city across the Delaware River from Philadelphia and found that Camden offers a fascinating mix of waterfront views, history, culture, and family‑friendly … Read more
Introduction If you’re like me—someone who loves a getaway where you can explore outdoors, dive into local culture, and still feel a bit off the beaten path—then Harrisonburg, Virginia, is a gem worth clicking into your travel radar. Tucked in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, this town blends a lively college‑town vibe … Read more
Introduction If you’re anything like me—someone who enjoys discovering a place that blends history, nature, and a little small‑town charm—you’ll find Simsbury, Connecticut, to be a delightful weekend escape. I recently spent a couple of days wandering around this New England town nestled in the Farmington Valley, and what stood out was its … Read more